And now we are being called to action again.  But this time to dine out to help the hospitality industry get back on its feet after being hit for six by the lockdown.

As far as sacrifices go, this one is most definitely our favourite. After spending lots of time cooped up indoors eating our own half-baked sourdough and soggy souffle, eating out will be a welcome change.

So, we will be backing the Eat Out to Help Out scheme when it starts next month and urge you to do the same.

It is not the most imaginatively titled initiative, but the idea – to help our high streets by supporting local eateries – is one we fully support.

We understand some people cannot eat out right now due to health or financial reasons, but if you can do your bit to keep businesses open and support jobs in Sutton and Cheam, then please do.

Here is what you need to know about the scheme.

• It is running every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday between 3 and 31 August.
• Eat out on these days at a participating restaurant, pub, or cafe, and you can get 50% off food and non-alcoholic drinks up (booze not included) to the value of £10 per person if you eat or drink in.
• The discount is applied straight away – no filling out of forms or waiting for refunds.
• You can take advantage of it as many times as you like.
• There is no minimum spend, and you do not have to order food to be eligible, for example a £3 coffee would cost £1.50 under the scheme.
• A website will be up and running by 31 July giving you a list of eateries taking part in the scheme.

It is worth noting that it is not just restaurants, cafes and pubs that can take part. Work and school canteens and food halls can too, providing they have registered.

If you are keen to take advantage of the scheme, always check that the venue is taking part before you order – to avoid any nasty surprises when the bill arrives.

Remember that many eateries can only serve a limited number of diners right now and ask that customers book ahead.

If you do make a reservation and cannot make it, let the venue know. No-shows cost businesses money, and things are tough in the hospitality industry.

Even before the pandemic, many food outlets, especially restaurants, were finding it challenging.

Between 2018 and 2019 almost 1,000 restaurants disappeared from UK high streets. (Overall numbers fell from 27,189 to 26,265. Source: Statista).

If we want Sutton and Cheam to have a thriving shopping and leisure centre and a warm neighbourhood buzz, it is up to us to support it.

Here at Henley Homes we are proud to be part of the community, and we are doing all we can to back it in these unusual times.